By Ayodele Ariyo
In a strongly worded joint statement, the Arewa Revival Project and a coalition of allied civil society organizations have reaffirmed their unwavering support for Nigeria’s democracy, the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, and the integrity of national institutions.
The statement, issued on Saturday, condemned what it described as “a coordinated campaign of misinformation and destabilization” allegedly driven by certain political actors, including Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and her affiliates.
The groups called recent allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio “baseless and politically motivated,” warning that such tactics pose a threat to democratic stability.
Alleged Coup Plot and Foreign Interference: Highlighting security threats to Nigeria’s democracy, the coalition referenced an attempted coup foiled in September 2024 involving a British national and two Nigerians.
According to police reports, the suspects allegedly formed sleeper cells aimed at inciting unrest and toppling the Tinubu’s administration.
“These subversive acts must be condemned in the strongest terms,” the statement read. “Our security agencies must remain vigilant in safeguarding the sovereignty of our nation.”
Hijacking of Civil Protests: The NGOs expressed concern over weaponization of civil protest movements, notably the #EndBadGovernance protests of August 2024.
While acknowledging the legitimacy of peaceful demonstrations, they argued that the protests were hijacked by external interests and turned violent, leading to loss of lives and damage to property.
“What we witnessed was not civic engagement but a veiled attempt to destabilize the country under the guise of activism,” they stated.
Attacks on Government Institutions: Also, the statement criticized targeted attacks on key government officials, particularly the Senate President, accusing detractors of using gender equity advocacy as a cover for political vendettas.“We stand for gender justice, but we must reject the use of unfounded claims as tools to discredit public officers and weaken democratic institutions,” the coalition added.
Criticism of Past Leaders: The groups expressed disappointment in the conduct of certain former political leaders, accusing them of fueling unrest through indirect criticism and misinformation rather than supporting national development.
“At a time when unity is paramount, some past leaders have chosen to align with forces bent on derailing national progress,” the statement noted.
Acknowledging Government Achievements: Despite mounting challenges, the coalition praised the Tinubu administration’s commitment to reform.
Citing major policy decisions such as the removal of fuel subsidies, naira liberalization, and the full repayment of the $3.4 billion IMF COVID-19 loan, the groups lauded the government’s efforts to restore fiscal discipline and attract foreign investment.They also applauded initiatives under the Renewed Hope Agenda, pointing to ongoing investments in infrastructure, youth empowerment, and digital innovation as signs of inclusive governance.
Call for National Unity: The Arewa Revival Project and its partners called on Nigerians to remain vigilant and united in defense of democracy, urging citizens to reject efforts aimed at plunging the nation into crisis.
“Democracy may not be perfect, but it remains the bedrock of our national progress. It must be defended against both internal saboteurs and foreign manipulators,” the groups emphasized.
Signed by the Arewa Revival Project, Society for Advancement of Credible Leadership Ideas and Observation, Mass Integration for Peace Initiative in Nigeria.
Also, Arewa Youth Development, National Council for Civil Society Organisations of Nigeria, National Alliance of Patriotic NGOs, United Northern Women for Democracy, Northern Youth Development Coalition, Civil Society Watch Nigeria.
